Spring family and kids activities in areas north of Toronto at Ontario attractions and other cool places!

Festival fun continues through April

1. Maple festivals really make you feel like you are part of Canada’s richly delicious heritage.  Did you know that Natives used syrup to flavour food and make tonics long before Europeans came to North America?  We have a lot to be proud of.  Even though it is slowly getting warmer, you have not missed out on festivals for this year!  Maple Festivals in Ontario are ongoing throughout April.  Tree tapping ceremonies, maple taffy, maple taffy…something for every family member.  If you don’t already believe it is the perfect family outing, festivals usually offer horse drawn wagon rides for tired legs to boot!

2. Shake your winter hibernation and getaway!  Get into the spirit and enjoy the beautiful spring weather (cough - when it gets here)!  Take advantage of the Victoria Day longweekend. Many resorts and hotels are offering great spring getaways specials for every weekend, not just the long weekend in May! Choose an event and stay in the area for a day or two, or more!

Enjoy outside again!

3. Family passes, rentals, and trails for every skill level make mountain biking a very accessible option!  Sir Sam’s in Haliburton and Hardwood Ski and Bike near Barrie are popular choices with knowledgeable staff to set you on you tour.  Imagine the looks on your city-dwelling neighbours faces after you’ve honed your biking skills all weekend long—watch out!

4. It is not too hot or busy yet, and with the great weather why not take advantage of hiking, beaches, and even geocaching.  Whether it is the Bruce Trail, Tay Trail, the trans-Canada or park paths, you have many hiking options north of Toronto.  Even if you didn't make it south this winter, some of Ontario's beaches are truly hidden jems!  In case you’re not familiar, Geocaching is a growing trend in which players use GPS devices to find hidden treasures-- now that is a new way to get out and enjoy life!

5. If you are anything like me, delicious, fresh baked goods and produce really top off an active, fun-filled outing!  The month of May marks the start of farmer'smarket season.  Not only will you be supporting local farms, but the benefits for you and your family are countless.  Many farmer's markets also have live music and artisan tables.

Spoil her silly!

6. Spring also means celebrating Mom! The anchor of the family, the lady who deserves everything and more! Mother's Day is on Sunday, May 12, 2013. Many resort accommodations offer a weekend that will give mom a break and some pampering - if a weekend getaway is not in the cards, consider a brunch or another mother's day event perfect for any day trip.

7. On April 22, Canadians will be joining 141 other nations who annually mark Earth Day.  The day is intended to inspire awareness and appreciation of the Earth's natural environment.  What better way to celebrate this day than heading north to a new or favourite outdoor getaway!  For Earth Day events please refer to our calendar.

8. Adventure and wild excitement can be experienced at Ontario family friendly attractions. A sure sign of spring is when the seasonal attractions start to open again. If your little ones have energy to burn there are many adventure activities for them to choose from like zip lining over the tree tops, gemstone mining, mini golfing, taking a flight on a Georgian Bay Airways plane or finding a quiet meadow and enjoying a horseback ride. The list of options is long!

Wildlife is our friend.

9. Be sure to experience some of Ontario’s wildlife treasures that will make you and your little adventurers feel like you’re in the outback!  Pack your hikers and even your opera glasses if you wish.  Wye Marsh encompasses 3000 acres for bikers, hikers, and even kayakers.  Explore on your own or with a guide or catch their weekend Birds of Prey or Wet n' Scaly show. Your family can also head out on the beautiful trails or suspension bridge at Scenic Caves Nature Adventures in Collingwood where you will definitely see some wildlife, birds and a breathtaking view of Georgian Bay. Fishing is also always a great activity to do with kids. See our website for fishing tips with kids!

10. Summer holidays are right around the corner.  Research and reserve your children’s spots in the best camps Ontario has to offer.  Canadian Physical Activity guidelines state that children and youth need at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorously intense activity per day.  In addition to activity, camps build confidence, social skills, and educate!  Whether it is a day camp or overnight, horseback riding or arts and crafts, there are so many to choose from.

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